Summary
From the literature and the geological maps it is known that superficial structures occur extensively associated with the Jurassic strata in the south Cotswolds. There is some discrepancy in the representation of superficial structures on the small-scale geological maps (1:63,360 and 1:50,000 scales).
Examples from the Bath area have been selected and engineering geomorphological maps of some superficial structures are presented. It is concluded that valley bulges and cambers are difficult to delimit using this technique but landslips, especially the more recent, large-scale ones, and mudflows can often be clearly depicted. An important consideration is the subsequent ‘smoothing’ of natural features by hillwash or intensive agriculture and associated ploughing. It is concluded that this form of mapping is no substitute either for geological mapping or for a proper site investigation; it can, however, add valuable data.
